In none of the arts more than architecture was this “rebirth” more apparent. The elements for the rediscovery of the Classical were visible in the many ancient buildings which over the centuries had been recycled and used as quarries for their materials.http://dicksonarchitects.com
The Renaissance style places emphasis on symmetry, proportion, geometry and the regularity of parts as they are demonstrated in the architecture of ancient Classical buildings, for example the architecture of Ancient Rome. Orderly arrangements of columns, pilasters and lintels, as well as the use of semicircular arches, hemispherical domes, and niches replaced the more complex proportional systems and irregular profiles of medieval buildings.

Characteristics of Renaissance Architecture

Plan: The plans of Renaissance buildings have a square, symmetrical blueprint.

Facade: The columns and windows show a progression towards the center. There is a regular repetition of openings on each floor, and the centrally placed door is marked by a feature such as a balcony, or rusticated surround.

Columns: The Roman orders of columns are used:- Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian and Composite. The orders can either be structural or purely decorative, set against a wall.

4. Arches: Arches are semi-circular or in the Mannerist style segmental. Arches are often used in arcades,
supported on columns.
5. Windows: Windows may be paired and set within a semi-circular arch. In the Mannerist period the
“Palladian” arch was employed, using a style of a high semi-circular topped opening flanked with two lower
square-topped openings.